This delightful soup showcases a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart. Imagine diving into a creamy, cheesy bowl with tender gnocchi, crispy bacon pieces, and a medley of vegetables. The rich and velvety soup is not only comforting but also bursts with savory goodness. With each spoonful, you’ll get hints of garlic, thyme, and just a pinch of heat from chili flakes, making it not just a meal, but a cozy experience.
Why make this dish? It’s quick to whip up, uses simple ingredients, and is a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids. Plus, who can resist the allure of luscious cheese and crispy bacon in one delicious soup?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes
- Made with pantry staples
- Perfect for weekly meal prep
- Full of comforting flavors
Ingredients for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- 8-10 slices Bacon
- 1 Tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1-2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2-1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- 16 ounces Gnocchi
- 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)
Step-by-Step Instructions of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, reserving some fat in the pot.
- Add the butter or olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat, then sauté the diced onion and sliced carrots until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and red chili flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, typically about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and blend in the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until heated through.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly.
- Crumble the reserved bacon into the soup and stir.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crispy bacon, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Cook the bacon until crispy for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference; add more chili flakes for an extra kick!
- Use fresh gnocchi for the best results, as they cook quickly and add a lovely texture.
Substitutions & Variations of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
To Make It Vegetarian: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a hearty twist. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Variations: Stir in some cooked spinach for added nutrients, or swap half the gnocchi for white beans for a protein-packed soup. You could also toss in a handful of fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh finish.
Storage Instructions of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: This soup does not freeze well due to the cream; however, you can freeze the base (without the cream and cheese) for up to 3 months. Just add cream and cheese after reheating.
Make-Ahead: You can pre-chop the veggies a day ahead and store them in the fridge, so you’re halfway ready when it’s time to cook!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time, and they’ll turn out great!
How can I make it spicier?
Feel free to add more red chili flakes or even some diced jalapeños!
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream if you prefer a lighter option.
Final Toughts
As you dive into a bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, you’ll find that it brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It’s a fantastic recipe that’s easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating after you try it out! Enjoy the cozy vibes!
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Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
A warm and hearty Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup featuring crispy bacon, tender gnocchi, and a creamy, cheesy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8–10 slices Bacon
- 1 Tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1–2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2–1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- 16 ounces Gnocchi
- 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, reserving some fat in the pot.
- Add the butter or olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat, then sauté the diced onion and sliced carrots until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and red chili flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, typically about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and blend in the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until heated through.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly.
- Crumble the reserved bacon into the soup and stir.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crispy bacon, if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy. Adjust chili flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian